Brentford forward Yoane Wissa has acknowledged the importance of this weekend’s game against Fulham to the club’s supporters and says the team are ready for the west London derby.
The Bees ran out 3-0 winners at Craven Cottage in the reverse fixture, with Wissa netting the first on a memorable day by the River Thames in August.
“It is an easy game to be motivated for because it means a lot to the fans,” said Wissa.
“We had a good result against them earlier in the season and that was a great day for our supporters, but we know they’ll want to correct that and so we must be ready to fight again.”
Brentford occupy 16th place in the table with three games left to play, sitting 10 points ahead of the bottom three. It means that Premier League football has been secured for a fourth consecutive campaign.
“Everyone is happy to be safe. We have been a bit unlucky this season overall in terms of the injuries and some of the results we have had,” he continued.
“There is always room for improvement of course, but we know that the main aim is always to be safe.
“We are settled as a Premier League club, but we know it is always difficult in this league. We have seen how hard it has been at times this year and we are ready to do better next season.
“We want to aim higher. We all have experience of the league, and we understand it more, so we’ll be looking to push on next season.”
The striker tops the scoring charts for Brentford so far this term, netting 10 times in 31 appearances.
“I am happy with that number so far this season, it means a lot for me and my family,” he said with a smile.
“Now I want to do more and keep improving, hopefully this weekend I can score, but 10 so far is a big achievement for me.”
The DR Congo international was also keen to highlight the role that head coach Thomas Frank has played in his development and exploits this season.
“He has helped me massively to become a better player and pushes all of us as players,” said Wissa.
“Sometimes it’s hard but he is the one who is encouraging me to learn and progress every day.
“He always meets with us players and finds something to help us with and to work on and that is great for us.
“Sometimes small things to change can make a big difference – he always focuses on those and for someone who is always looking to improve it is important to me.”